Mount Mitchell Balsam Nature Trail: 2024 Hiking Guide

A short hike through a balsam forest to the peak of the tallest mountain on the East Coast.

This guide shares everything to know about hiking the Balsam Nature Trail in Mount Mitchell State Park, from parking tips to trail details and what to expect along the way.

Mount Mitchel mountain views with balsam forest.

Balsam Nature Trail Quick Facts

Trailhead location: Mount Mitchell Summit Area Parking Lot

Trail length: 0.9 mile loop

Difficulty: Easy

Elevation change: ~150ft

Distance from downtown Asheville: 33 miles

Drive time from downtown Asheville: 1 hour

Trail Condition: The trail is a well-traveled packed dirt path generally in good condition with rocks and steps along the way.

About The Trail

Mount Mitchell’s Balsam Nature Trail is a short hike through evergreen trees that meets the paved path to the observation deck at the top of Mount Mitchell.

It’s nicely shaded and is surrounded by beauty in every direction. Plus, it smells like Christmas trees!

There are informational signs along the way that detail the various tree types, common birds, and more.

The loop is great because it ends on the path up to the observation deck. We typically take the loop and then pop up to the peak before heading down the paved road to the restrooms and concession area.

What To Expect On The Trail

Trail in forest on the Balsam Nature Trail in Mount Mitchell State Park,.

The Balsam Nature Trail is relatively short with little elevation climb.

The trail starts at the parking lot and enters the evergreen forest full of spruce and fir trees.

The trail is a dirt path with rocks and roots along the way.

The loop traverses east before looping back toward the Mount Mitchell Summit.

Directions To the Mount Mitchell Balsam Nature Loop Trail

The trailhead is at the last parking lot in Mount Mitchell State Park.

From Asheville, follow the Blue Ridge Parkway north and turn into Mount Mitchell State Park at Blue Ridge Parkway Milepost 355.

Follow the road in Mount Mitchell State Park for about 4.5 miles and park in the last parking lot near the restroom and canteen

Parking for The Balsam Nature Loop

There is a parking lot at the trailhead for the Mt. Mitchell Balsam Loop. The paved path to the observation deck is also located at the parking lot.

You’ll also find restrooms, a canteen, a gift shop and a museum in the parking lot. There’s also a picnic area to the side– you’ll pass by it on your way to the main parking lot.

Mount Mitchell Balsam Nature Loop Hike

The Mount Mitchell Balsam Nature Loop is a short easy hike that takes you to the tallest mountain in the Eastern US via a dense evergreen forest trail.

Balsam Nature Loop Trailhead

The trailhead is at the last parking lot in Mount Mitchell State Park. The trailhead is at the southeast corner of the parking lot on the lower tier as you approach the main parking area. You will see a large sign overhead identifying the start of the trail.

Hike to the top of Mount Mitchell

Though this may sound strenuous, hiking to the top of Mount Mitchell from here is an easy and enjoyable adventure.

Once you go under the trail sign you’ll find yourself in a canopy of fir and spruce trees. Towering trees, lush ferns, and moss-covered rocks create a magical ambiance.

Along the way, informative boards highlight the area’s rich history, wildlife, and natural wonders. The trail initially heads east before looping back west toward the peak of Mount Mitchell.

You will eventually merge with the Mt. Mitchell trail and follow it for the last quarter mile. Along the way, you will pass interesting rock formations including one that juts over the trail with trees growing above.

After 0.7 miles you will reach the paved path that takes you the last few steps up to the observation deck at the summit of Mount Mitchell.

After taking in the 360-degree views you can follow the paved path back to the parking lot.

Know Before You Go

This trail is at a high elevation and temperatures can be much cooler than off the mountain. Be sure to pack layers.

Check to make sure the Blue Ridge Parkway is open at Mount Mitchell. It closes for inclement weather for much of the winter.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the Mount Mitchell Balsam Loop Trail?

The Mount Mitchell Balsam Loop Trail is a 0.9-mile loop from the parking lot trailhead to the summit of Mount Mitchell and then back down the paved path to the parking lot.

Is the Mount Mitchell Balsam Loop Trail a good hike for kids?

Yes, the Mount Mitchell Balsam Loop Trail is a great hike for children. It is short, has relatively little elevation gain, and offers world-class mountain-top views.

Are dogs allowed in Mount Mitchell State Park?

Yes, dogs are allowed in Mount Mitchell State Park. Dogs must be leashed at all times.

Where do you park for the Mount Mitchell Balsam Nature Loop?

There is a parking lot located at the trailhead for the Balsam Nature Loop.

Are there restrooms at the Mount Mitchell Balsam Nature Loop Trailhead?

Yes, there are restrooms at the Mt. Mitchell Balsam Nature Loop Trailhead.

What mile marker is Mount Mitchell on the Blue Ridge Parkway?

Mount Mitchell is located at milepost 355.4 on the Blue Ridge Parkway.

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